How To Recover After Having Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is often needed when you have a condition that has caused your knee joint to deteriorate, such as arthritis. During the procedure, your doctor will replace the knee joint with an artificial joint. It is a major type of procedure that requires careful monitoring and proper recovery methods. Here are some tips for recovering after you have knee replacement surgery.
Start Moving Right Away
One of the most important things to keep in mind when you are healing from knee replacement surgery is that you need to start moving the artificial joint almost immediately. You will be in some pain, but you still need to get that knee moving. Within the first day of waking up from your procedure, your surgeon will recommend that you start sitting up, standing, and learning to walk with the joint. You will be a little slow at first, but that's okay. Regular movement and practice using the joint is the most important thing.
Seek Help From Your Physical Therapist
You will have a physical therapist who begins helping you with your strength and mobility while you are still in the hospital, but they will also help you after you return home. In the hospital, the physical therapist is there to help get you moving. They will make sure you are improving and getting stronger, and that you keep motivated with moving regularly. It is tempting to want to just lay in bed after any surgical procedure, but this will only halt the recovery process. The therapist is going to help get you down the hallway and gradually increase your strength. They will also help to set up your home environment. Visit walk in clinics if you notice new problems with your recovery.
Continue Getting Regular Exercise at Home
If you are sent home after knee replacement surgery instead of to a rehabilitation facility, it is up to you to remain motivated and keep getting used to the new knee joint. Don't just lay in bed or sit on the couch because it is easier. Follow your physical therapists' instructions so you can eventually treat the knee as if it was a natural joint. However, you also don't want to overdo it. Your physical therapist or occupational therapist will give you advice on when to exercise and when to rest.
Continue seeing your surgeon as requested for check-ups. They will want to check your strength and flexibility, and ensure the wound itself is healing well. Inform them if you are concerned about anything during the recovery period.